By Gemma Q. Casas
Variety News Staff

THE local economy remains sluggish, but business was brisk for most establishments on Valentine’s Day — until a power outage hit Garapan, the center of business activities on Saipan, around 2 p.m.
The power outage lasted for more than an hour.
With power gone, Internet connection was disrupted disappointing residents who were sending free e-cards to their loved ones.
Commonwealth Utilities Corp. spokeswoman Pamela Mathis said the unannounced power outage happened because one engine at the main power plant was down.
But she said the problem has already been fixed.
Florists, restaurants and other establishments were busy yesterday as residents celebrated Valentine’s Day with their loved ones.
“We have to celebrate Valentine’s Day even if there’s an economic crisis,” said Jacob Taisacan, who sent his girlfriend a heart-shaped box with a fresh red rose costing $65.
Power interruptions today
CUC, in a media release, said its linemen will replace four old power poles today and Friday.
The poles are either significantly cracked or termite infested, presenting a major safety hazard.
CUC crews requested limited power interruptions to safely remove the high voltage wires from the old poles. New poles will be erected, and the wires reattached.
Today, an outage will occur at 2:30 p.m. in the Upper Navy Hill area where the first power pole will be replaced.
Crews anticipate the new pole will be installed and electricity will be turned on before 4:30 p.m.
The same crews are assigned to work in As Matuis on Friday afternoon where three power poles need to be replaced.
Power there will be turned off at 12:30 noon and restored before 3:30 p.m.